A worker at Lil Hawks Daycare located at 1104 W Heroy Ave, Spokane, WA 99205, is now facing serious allegations after an incident that left a young child hospitalized. Marissa Ann-Marie Kuhen, an employee at the daycare, has been accused of pulling a child off a play structure in April, according to KHQ. The child reportedly sustained a broken leg, raising alarm among parents who rely on childcare services.
The case has brought increased attention to the safety and oversight of childcare facilities. Lil Hawks Daycare, which holds a quality rating of 3 out of 5, has been inspected twice over the past two years. Inspection reports highlighted issues such as staff members with expired first aid certifications and the presence of undocumented bottles of Tylenol on-site. However, no prior allegations of child abuse were noted in these inspections.
Parents are now being encouraged to explore resources like the "Child Care Check" tool provided by the Washington Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF). This tool offers detailed information on inspections, complaints, and quality ratings for childcare centers across the state.
NonStop Local is actively working to verify a statement that Lil Hawks Daycare has reportedly released about the incident. The case has left many parents questioning the safety standards and regulations governing facilities entrusted with the care of their children.
When parents entrust their children to a daycare, safety and care are the top priorities. But when harm occurs, families are often left wondering what steps they can take to protect their children and hold those responsible accountable. Attorney Mike Pfau, a seasoned legal advocate in daycare abuse cases, provides clarity on the legal pathways available for families and the importance of addressing violations in childcare settings.
Editor Darla Medina: For families dealing with incidents like the one at Lil Hawks Daycare, what legal steps can they take?
Attorney Mike Pfau: When a child is harmed at a daycare, families have the right to seek accountability. This often involves filing a civil claim against the daycare or the individual responsible for the harm. The goal is to secure compensation for medical expenses, emotional distress, and any long-term effects the child may endure.
Medina: How does Washington law handle cases involving daycare safety?
Pfau: Washington has strict regulations for childcare centers, but when those standards are violated, and a child is injured, it opens the possibility for legal action. Parents can also look into whether the daycare met licensing requirements, such as maintaining up-to-date first aid certifications, which seems to be a concern in this case.
Medina: What advice would you give to parents who suspect their child may have been mistreated?
Pfau: Document everything. Keep records of any injuries, medical visits, and communications with the daycare. Report your concerns to the proper authorities, like the Department of Children, Youth, and Families, which oversees daycare licensing in Washington. Consulting with an attorney early on can also help clarify your options and build a strong case.
If your child has been harmed in a daycare setting, you don’t have to face this alone. Understanding your legal options is the first step toward ensuring accountability and securing the support your family deserves. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case and explore how we can help you protect your child’s rights and well-being.